Open Wine Cellars 2025: How Cave La Madeleine welcomes you to Valais

Camille Fontannaz, what advice would you give to visitors during Open Wine Cellars?

I recommend discovering new wineries every year, especially the smaller ones, which are often overlooked. Open Cellars is a unique opportunity to taste rare or typical grape varieties. Here in Vétroz, you absolutely must try Amigne, the commune's emblematic grape variety, which we love to work with in all its expressions, from dry to sweet.

What do these days mean to you?

It's the highlight of the year, both for meeting wine lovers and for direct sales. It's an integral part of our calendar and we participate every year with passion. It's a festive occasion, but also a great economic opportunity that motivates us to give our very best.

How do you welcome your visitors during the event?

To provide an immersive and unique experience, we create different tasting areas tailored to individual preferences: a sunny terrace overlooking the vineyards, a barrel cellar where visitors can immerse themselves in the winemaking process, and a more intimate lounge area. We serve the wine directly at the table and accompany each visitor to understand their tastes and share the stories behind our wines. The entire team is involved, from the cellar master to the apprentices. The atmosphere is enhanced by a pianist and musical entertainment, as well as food and wine pairings thanks to the magnificent selection of our affineur, Claude Luisier.

In an increasingly digital world, how important is direct contact to you?

It's essential. Digital technology allows us to communicate better and reach a wider audience, but nothing can replace human connection. Ultimately, it's a great tool for inviting visitors to come and meet us. When someone is made to feel welcome, like a member of the family, they come back. We are convinced of that. Our profession is above all a passion, and the bond we create with our customers reflects the commitment and love we put into our wines.

Do you have a favourite wine from your estate?

Of course, the Amigne, which is particularly close to our hearts. But our ‘Magdalena’ blend also means a lot to us. It's a bit of a symbol of the house. And then, of course, there's the Fendant, an essential wine for starting a tasting. We are very proud of our 2023 vintage, which won the Étoile du Valais award for the best Fendant from the Valais in 2024. This is a great recognition and an invitation to discover our new vintage!

2024 was a difficult year for wine. Did you feel that?

Yes, it was a real challenge, both in the vineyards and in the cellar. However, we remain optimistic: this vintage will be fresh, light and elegant. The quantity will be lower, but the quality will be there.

What are the main challenges for viticulture today?

The climate is testing us more and more often: late frosts, humidity, disease... It's a constant battle. That's why we have chosen to adopt more responsible farming practices: we work organically on half of our estate, which covers around 13 hectares. Our goal is to combine respect for the environment with excellence. We are Vitiswiss certified, and several of our wines carry the Marque Valais label, guaranteeing a sustainable and ethical approach.

What makes Cave La Madeleine unique?

Above all, it's a family story. My father founded the estate, and today my sister, my mother and I are continuing this adventure with passion. We are committed to authenticity, the terroir and the personality of our wines. Each one has its own character, and our efforts are regularly rewarded. For example, our rosé ‘Les Gamines’, a floral, light and delicately feminine wine, was voted Best Rosé at the Mondial du Pinot by Vinofed. This is a project that is particularly close to our hearts and will be the ideal companion for a colourful summer!

Info

• The open wine cellars will take place in Valais from 29 to 31 May 2025.

• Opening hours: 11:00 to 18:00

• More info about the Cave de La Madeleine- André Fontannaz et filles.